poor and needy

There is a difference between being poor and being needy. The needy might lack money, employment, or some other temporal thing. It is usually easy to solve their need. The poor may be poor in spirit, manner, habits or lifestyle. If they are given money, food, or clothing, they may remain poor. They have difficulty handling their money or managing their homes. They are usually remiss in their church attendance. Their needs require assistance from compassionate people, and even then, a long healing process is often required. Jesus said, "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. . . . And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them" (Mark 10:14, 16). The poor of the Church are in some ways like little children. They may be unwise in their judgement, easily distracted, and a little self-centered. Even their faith is like a child's - they go to their bishop when thay have a need and expect to get just what they ask for. They are usually unaware of their own responsibilities. The poor of the Church need leaders who are understanding and patient. Charity, the pure love of Christ, must be in the heart of every bishop and Relief Society president. 

Glen L. Rudd

Pure Religion: The Story of Church Welfare Since 1930 by Glen L. Rudd. 1995. P.314. See also D&C 44:6